Different Levels of SMC Level M
Understanding the Different Levels of SMC Level M. The VA will give additional disability pay called Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) in cases where the disability is so severe that the regular ratings are not fair or adequate. For example, the loss of one hand and a foot is more serious than just the lost of one hand.
All Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Rates are given instead of the standard VA Disability Rates and all Special Monthly Compensation is tax-free.
Level M
The following conditions qualify for a rating under Level M:
- Amputation of both hands (below the elbow)
- Loss of use of both hands
- Amputation of one hand (below the elbow) and the loss of use of one hand
- Amputation of both knees
- Loss of use of both knees
- Amputation of one elbow and one knee
- Loss of use of one elbow and one knee
- Amputation of one foot and amputation of one leg so close to the hip that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
- Loss of use of one foot and amputation of one leg so close to the hip that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
- Amputation of one foot and amputation of one arm so close to the shoulder that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
- Loss of use of one foot and amputation of one arm so close to the shoulder that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
- Amputation of one foot and loss of use of one arm at the shoulder
- Loss of use of one foot and loss of use of one arm at the shoulder
- Amputation of one hand and amputation of one leg so close to the hip that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
- Loss of use of one hand and amputation of one leg so close to the hip that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
BLINDNESS
- Total blindness in both eyes with only the ability to perceive light
- Blindness in both eyes that requires the veteran to have someone help with his basic needs (eating, using the restroom, dressing, etc.)
- A blindness in one eye and the physical loss of the other eye
- Blindness in one eye and total blindness without the ability to perceive light in the other eye
- A blindness in one eye and total blindness in the other eye with only the ability to perceive light and total deafness in one ear
- Blindness in both eyes and deafness in both ears (rated by the VASRD 30% or more)
- A blindness in both eyes and amputation of one hand
- Blindness in both eyes and loss of use of one hand
- A blindness in both eyes and amputation of one foot
- Blindness in both eyes and loss of use of one foot (rated by the VASRD at 50% or more)
- A blindness in one eye and total blindness in the other eye with only the ability to perceive light and the loss of use of one foot (rated by the VASRD at less than 50%)
The current compensation tables can be found here on the VA Web site.
DENIED BENEFITS?
If you have been denied any of your VA benefits you have the right to appeal. The process can be complicated and time-consuming. We are here to help you win your appeal and secure all the benefits you deserve. Call our office today at 800-861-7262 for a free consultation or use our secure web email.
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